IT'S official, Knutsford really does have a heart of gold.

Knutsford town and the Knutsford Community First Responder Trust (KCFRT) were honoured with a Cardiac Smart Award at a ceremony in Bolton’s Reebok Stadium last month.

Not only did they receive an award but they achieved the highest level award possible – Gold - for their work in extending first aid training in the town and the placement of public access Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).

Lisa Johnson, Chairman of KCFRT, said she was delighted with the award, which was presented by the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS).

“It highlights Knutsford town has long been seen by NWAS as an example of excellence in relation to community support for emergency healthcare,” she added.

“The volunteers of the KCFRT have been working tirelessly since 2002 to provide emergency healthcare services to the community and we are proud that Knutsford has now been given recognition for its dedication to support a safe and healthy community. 

“This award is something for the whole town to be proud of.”
CardiacSmart awards are designed to recognise those who have made outstanding contributions to raising awareness and promoting heart health across the North West.

The KCFRT is a charity made up of volunteers and these volunteers have trained over 1,000 people in Knutsford through their free bi-monthly sessions.

In addition to this, the town now has 15 public access Automated External Defibrillators and the KCFRT has also trained many local groups and organisations in emergency life support.

Clr Vivien Davies, Sylvia Thomas (KCFRT HeartStart Trainer) and Alan Parker (KCFRT Treasurer) accepted the award on behalf of the town at the awards ceremony on December 4.

Clr Davies said: “I was delighted to receive the Gold Award on behalf of the Trust, the Town Council and the people of Knutsford who have given donations and attended Community HeartStart classes.

“The award was well deserved and a place is now being sorted to display the award.”